Michael Mandelbaum Argues He and His Wife of 20 Years, Debra, Were Never Technically Married

Michael and Debra Mandelbaum lived as husband and wife for about 20 years. They had a Jewish wedding ceremony. They had three children, filed tax returns jointly, purchased houses and shared anniversary cards, court records show.

Now, Mr. Mandelbaum has taken an unusual position in divorce proceedings brought by his wife. He said in New Jersey Superior Court documents that, according to the letter of the law, they were never technically married.